Tory divorce proposals patronising and out of touch, says leading divorce lawyer.

A leading divorce lawyer has branded Conservative Party proposals for a compulsory three-month “cooling off” period before divorce proceedings can start
as “completely out of touch with reality”.

Sandra Sinclair, senior partner with SAS Daniels LLP solicitors in Cheshire says that the report is “deeply patronising”.

The report, called “Every Family Matters”, suggests estranged couples should be required by law to undergo a three-month period before launching divorce proceedings so that they can reflect on their marriage and examine the possibility of reconciliation.

It also suggests a range of measures to reform family law and “save saveable marriages”, including the introduction of tax breaks to promote marriage, and reversing Labour proposals to offer rights to unmarried cohabiting couples.

“This is not a well-thought-through proposal. There is already in place by law a compulsory period of one year from the date of the marriage before divorce proceedings can be instigated,” said Sandra Sinclair.

“This is typical of a potential paternalistic Executive which is completely out of touch with reality if they believe that separating couples take the decision to divorce lightly.

“For the vast majority of couples, it is the hardest decision for them to make, usually taken after months of excruciating and careful thought, sometimes associated with prolonged misery.

“This report and proposal is paternalistic and deeply patronising – couples should be free to make their own choices when it is right for them.”

SAS Daniels LLP solicitors has offices in Stockport, Macclesfield, Chester, Congleton, and Bramhall.